…..Keyamo Says Worker Behind Indecent Video Of Ibom Air Passenger Will Be Sanctioned
…..Justice Should Be Fair,’ Obi Faults Arraignment, Remand Of Ibom Air Passenger
By CiviPulseNg Editorial Team
The Nigerian aviation sector was thrown into heated debate this week after the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) slammed a lifetime no-fly ban on Comfort Emmanson, a female passenger accused of violently assaulting Ibom Air crew members and security staff during a Uyo–Lagos flight.
According to AON spokesperson, Obiora Okonkwo, the ban, effective immediately, applies to all AON member airlines, both within Nigeria and on international routes. The association described the incident as “one of the most severe acts of unruly passenger behaviour in recent years.”
What Happened Onboard
The drama reportedly began when Emmanson refused to switch off her mobile phone before take-off, despite repeated instructions. A fellow passenger eventually switched it off, triggering an angry outburst.
Upon arrival at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, witnesses say she confronted the flight purser, tore off her wig, removed her glasses, stomped on her, and slapped two attendants. She also allegedly attacked security officials and attempted to grab a fire extinguisher, an act that could have damaged the aircraft.
AON’s Zero-Tolerance Policy
In its statement, AON warned that any passenger who engages in similar behaviour will face the same lifetime ban. The body also called on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to tighten airport security protocols, citing rising cases of unruly passenger incidents in recent months.
Government Reaction
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, condemned the public release of an “indecent” video showing the passenger, calling it “deplorable” and ordering sanctions against any staff involved. While he supported filming for evidence, he stressed that releasing sensitive footage to embarrass a suspect is unacceptable.
Keyamo also directed airlines to improve staff training in handling conflicts and announced plans for a joint security meeting to strengthen airport safety measures.
Peter Obi Speaks Out
Reacting to the case, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, criticised the swift arraignment and remand of Emmanson at Kirikiri Correctional Centre, accusing authorities of double standards. Without naming names, he compared the case to a recent airport disruption involving a popular entertainer, who he said faced no legal consequences.
Obi condemned what he described as the “dehumanising treatment” of the passenger, insisting that justice must be fair, equal, and not selective. “This is not just about one woman,” he said. “It’s about building a justice system that treats everyone equally, regardless of influence or status.”
Public Debate Continues
The incident has sparked a nationwide conversation about passenger behaviour, crew safety, and the fairness of Nigeria’s justice system. While many Nigerians support the lifetime ban as a deterrent, others believe the case exposes flaws in how justice is applied, especially when compared to high-profile offenders.
AON has made it clear: the skies are off-limits to violent passengers, no matter who they are.
